Trauma, Trust in Government, and Social Connection: How Social Context Shapes Attitudes Related to the Use of Ideologically or Politically Motivated Violence

• NCJ Number: 254243
• Journal: Studies in Conflict & Terrorism Dated: 2019
• Author(s): B. Heidi Ellis; Georgios Sideridis; Alisa B. Miller; Saida M. Abdi; Jeffrey P. Winer
• Date Published: 2019
• Length: 12 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2012-ZA-BX-0004; 2014-ZA-BX-0001
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Award: Gang Affiliation and Radicalization to Violent Extremism within Somali-American Communities; Understanding Pathways to and away from Violent Radicalization among Resettled Somali Refugees

Annotation

This study examined how grievances and social connection among Somali immigrants are associated with attitudes towards radicalization to violence.

Abstract

Data were obtained from structured interviews with 213 Somali young adult men living in North America. Structural Equation Modeling was used to test the association of grievances with attitudes in support of political violence, and the mediating role of social connection (ethnic community belonging, attachment to nation of residence, and social comfort seeking online). Both grievances and social connection/disconnection relate to support for political violence, but in complex ways. Findings are discussed in relation to prevention of violent extremism. (publisher abstract modified)